The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present the Northern Arizona premiere of “The Divine Sarah Bernhardt” showing Aug. 8-14 at the Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre.

“The Divine Sarah Bernhardt” is a romantic biopic about the world’s first diva.

Known as “La Divine”, French actress Sarah Bernhardt left an indelible mark, shattering societal norms thank to her daring personality and performances.

This decadent film explores her passionate relationship with actor Lucien Guitry whilst she navigates stardom, wealth, scandals and sickness.

A veritable myth who became the first ‘star’ known the world over, Sarah Bernhardt has much to intrigue. Not only did she make an indelible mark on her era, but her name has endured throughout the 20th century and still does today — yet few people really know who she was.

Her charisma and the events that marked her life are rich and extraordinary. Sarah was an immense tragedienne, with a bewitching voice and a rare magnetism, but also a woman ahead of her time. A woman free in body and spirit, defending her convictions with determination, often against the advice of the majority. And if she didn't espouse the feminist cause, she lived it as a matter of course. An adventuress who traveled the world and drew crowds wherever she went. A woman who lived life to the full, enjoying all the pleasures and savoring the forbidden.

“The Divine Sarah Bernhardt” will be shown at the Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre Aug. 8-14. Showtimes will be Friday, Saturday and Monday, Aug. 8, 9 and 11 at 3:30 p.m.; and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 12, 13 and 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members. For tickets and more information, please call 928-282-1177. Both the theatre and film festival office are located at 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, in West Sedona. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.org.